Lang
8/19/19
The West Branch School Board has accepted the resignation of high school principal Shannon Bucknell after allegations of “bullying” and creating a hostile environment from female students and staff.
The board voted to accept Bucknell’s resignation at Monday night’s meeting. It comes after a months-long investigation into allegations that Bucknell was dismissive of female students who complained about harassment from a fellow student. 19-year-old former senior Brady Lukavsky was given a suspended sentence after pleading guilty to a 3rd Degree Harassment charge in April. Police say Lukavsky sent nude photos and requests for sex to the cellphone of a 17-year-old student over the course of several months. The girl told Lukavsky to stop, but he continued.
A no-contact order was put in place. Lukavsky and the girl did not share any classes, and Lukavsky’s schedule was adjusted to avoid contact with the girl in the hallways.
Police say other students received similar unsolicited images and messages from Lukavsky, but they refused to press charges.
According to The West Branch Times, documents to accept Bucknell’s resignation state that he also created a hostile work environment, and:
• Failed to take appropriate steps to change that culture,
• Failed to adequately respond to complaints by female students,
• Made inappropriate comments to female staff, and
• Failed to meet his ethical and professional responsibilities as an Iowa educator and school administrator under the Iowa Standards for School Leaders.
Sources close to the case have told KCJJ that Bucknell was openly hostile and “bullying” toward those who complained about Lukavsky’s actions, causing what an investigation termed to be a “hostile environment”.
Bucknell has been on paid administrative leave since May 8th. As part of the resignation agreement, Bucknell can’t sue the school district, and the district will not oppose any unemployment claims.
